The trusted authority on Social Security strategy
NSSA delivers rigorous, expert-backed education and professional credentials for financial advisors who advise on Social Security and Medicare.
3,000+ Certified Advisors
Since we began in 2013 thousands of advisors have benefited from earning their NSSA® Certification.
The First Social Security Certification
National Social Security Advisors is the first Social Security certification program in the country.
Built by Social Security Experts
The NSSA® program was created by former Social Security Administration employees and is grounded in federal regulations.
More than
40,000+ Sources
Our resources and materials reference more than 40,000 rules and regulations including POMS, CMS, Medicare, and the CFR
Our Mission
We empower financial advisors to become authoritative counselors on Social Security and Medicare—the most complex and consequential financial decisions their clients face. By combining rigorous education with AI-driven knowledge retrieval and expert review, NSSA ensures advisors have both the certification and the tools to deliver confident, accurate guidance.
Built on Experience
Together, 80+ years of specialized expertise in Social Security, Medicare, and financial advising.
The National Social Security Advisor (NSSA) certification was established in 2013 by Marc Kiner and Jim Blair, two highly accomplished professionals with extensive experience in Social Security and tax matters. Marc Kiner, a licensed CPA with 40 years of experience and advanced degrees in Accounting, Finance, and Tax from the University of Cincinnati, combined his expertise with Jim Blair's 49-year career in Social Security, which included 35 years with the Social Security Administration.
Together, they created the NSSA certification program to equip advisors with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of Social Security benefits.
Leadership & Innovation
In 2024, Marc and Jim passed the torch to Social Security Professionals (SSP), ushering in a new era for the NSSA certification program. The new leadership team, led by Jason Stanley, brings fresh energy and a commitment to innovation. With upgraded technology and curriculum, the program continues to provide top-notch training and resources.
In 2025, NSSA acquired the IRMAACP designation. This strategic move bridges Social Security and Medicare expertise under one portfolio, recognizing that these two systems are inseparable for retirement planning. Advisors now earn both credentials to serve clients more comprehensively.
MEET THE TEAMMeet The Team
We are a team of dedicated and dynamic professionals eager to share our expertise in Social Security and Medicare benefits, financial advising, and successful business practices.
Jason Stanley
Managing Director
Todd Valles
Director of IRMAA and Medicare Education
Cindi Hill
Director of Social Security Education
Marc Kiner
Founding
Member
Jim Blair
Founding
Member